Why Retailers and Marketers Are Shunning Dangote Refinery Petrol for Imports: Insights from Stakeholders
In recent months, the Nigerian petroleum market has witnessed a notable shift, as retailers and marketers increasingly turn to imported fuel instead of sourcing from the Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in Africa. This trend has raised eyebrows among industry stakeholders, who cite several factors influencing this decision, as well as the potential long-term implications for the domestic fuel landscape. 1. Pricing Discrepancies One of the primary reasons retailers are opting for imported petrol is the competitive pricing of imported fuels. Stakeholders have pointed out that the cost of petrol from the Dangote Refinery has not been as attractive as expected, primarily due to high local production costs and the refinery's operational challenges. As a result, marketers find better margins when sourcing fuel from international markets, where prices are more favorable due to economies of scale and competitive pricing. 2. Quality Concerns Quality is a crucial factor in th...